Book Appointments & Health Checkup Packages
Book Appointments & Health Checkup Packages
The Whipple procedure, or Pancreatoduodenectomy, is the primary surgery used to treat tumours located in the head of the pancreas. It can also be performed to address certain benign pancreatic lesions, cysts, and cancers in the bile duct or the early part of the small intestine (duodenum). The objective of this complex surgery is to fully remove the tumour along with any surrounding lymph nodes where cancer might spread. After removing these tissues, the surgeon reconnects the pancreas, bile duct, and small intestine to ensure the digestive system continues to function properly.
Pancreatic cancer is often referred to as a silent disease, and its prevalence in India has notably risen over the past decade. Only about 15% to 20% of pancreatic cancer patients are candidates for the Whipple procedure. Given its complexity and high risk, this surgery requires significant skill and experience to perform and manage potential complications. At Manipal Hospitals in Mukundapur, our highly experienced hepatobiliary surgeons are adept at performing the Whipple procedure with the highest level of precision and care, making Manipal Hospitals the best Whipple surgery hospital in Mukundapur.
The Whipple procedure is an option for patients if a tumour is located in the head of the pancreas, has not spread, and can be surgically removed. A thorough series of medical tests and evaluations is typically required to determine if a patient is a suitable candidate for this procedure.
While most patients undergoing this surgery have pancreatic cancer, the Whipple procedure is also used to treat other conditions, such as:
Pancreatic cysts
Chronic pancreatitis
Cancer in the upper small intestine (duodenum)
Damage to the pancreas or small intestine
Cancer between the bile and pancreatic ducts
Bile duct cancer
Neuroendocrine tumours
Before undergoing the Whipple procedure, there are several steps to prepare. If you have cancer, you may require Radiation or Chemotherapy before the surgery. Once your surgery date is set, you will need to stop certain medications and herbal supplements, as advised by the doctor.
On the day before your surgery, you might need to:
Stop eating or drinking at least 8 hours before arriving at the hospital.
Refrain from using erectile dysfunction medications, such as Viagra.
Continue taking your blood pressure medication with a small sip of water.
Ensure to arrange for a friend or family member to give you a ride home after the procedure.
Before the procedure, a nurse will insert a needle and tube into a vein in your arm, known as an intravenous (IV) line. This IV allows doctors to easily administer fluids and medications before or during the surgery. Additionally, doctors may use an epidural catheter to inject a numbing medication into your spine, which can help reduce pain after the surgery.
During the procedure, the surgeon makes a large incision in your abdomen. In some cases, a Whipple procedure is performed laparoscopically, using several small incisions instead of one large one. The surgeon first examines the abdominal organs and lymph nodes to ensure that the cancer hasn't spread and can be fully removed. Tissue samples are taken for biopsy.
Next, the surgeon removes the tumour, surrounding tissue, parts of the pancreas, the duodenum, the pylorus (the lower portion of the stomach), the gallbladder, part of the common bile duct, and nearby lymph nodes. After these structures are removed, the surgeon reconnects the remaining part of the stomach to the jejunum. The remaining parts of the bile duct and pancreas are joined to the jejunum, enabling bile and pancreatic juices to flow into it. This helps to neutralise stomach acid and decreases the risk of developing ulcers in that region.
The Whipple procedure is a major surgery, and recovery will take time. You can expect to experience some pain after the procedure, but your care team will manage it and monitor you closely for any signs of infection or other complications during your hospital stay.
For the first few days, you will be on a clear liquid diet until your doctors determine that you are ready to start eating solid foods. As soon as you are able, you should begin lung exercises and try to move around your room. Just be sure to ask a nurse or physical therapist for assistance to avoid any falls.
The Whipple procedure is a major surgery, but the vast majority of patients successfully recover from it. Approximately one-third of patients may experience complications, which can range from minor to severe, including bleeding, infection, blood clots, pneumonia, and heart attacks. However, our highly experienced surgeons are skilled at managing most of these issues without the need for additional surgery.
Recovery varies based on the type of surgery and your overall health. You might need to start or continue taking pancreatic enzymes to help digest fats, carbohydrates, and proteins. Engaging in physical activity can improve your overall well-being and may also boost your appetite. Once you’re ready to resume activities, consult your doctor to determine which ones are appropriate and proceed gradually.
Home Mukundapur Specialities Liver-transplantation-surgery Whipple-procedure